Drive Guys,
I have a 2006 Toyota Sienna LE, which I use to haul model trains to train sales around the country. I estimate the weight of the load is around 1,000 pounds, which is well within the load weight limit for the vehicle.
However, I can see that the rear of the vehicle is about two inches lower with this load, and at night oncoming drivers are constantly flashing their lights at me, so I think I need to install heavier duty springs to level the loaded van. (I had them on an earlier Olds Silhouette and they worked great!)
I’ve tried the Toyota dealership and the Moog and Federal-Mogul Web sites to no avail.
Have you any suggestions?
Thanks for your help.
John D.
Ed: Hi, John.
I’m not sure on how you are loading your Sienna. The 1,000 pounds you mentioned, equally distributed from the front seats back, and might make it work.
Additional suspension modifications for the Sienna will probably be a little hard to find.
One thought, what about air bags? I have seen these available at some of the RV trailer stores, but I’m not sure if they have something that will work with the Sienna.
I am sure that many oncoming drivers are flashing their lights at you. Dropping the rear of your vehicle raises the front and changes the headlight alignment. This can be readjusted with the vehicle loaded, but would be a serious problem is you use the vehicle without the load in it.
Jeff: John, I would suggest air bag ride control as the best choice. However, there are other options such as helper springs, air shocks etc. … I would suggest checking with a company like J.C. Whitney for recommendations.
